Songs to Play Before a Match: Athlete-Approved Anthems and Pump-Up Tracks That Overflow with Power
At those crucial moments—like during daily practice or right before an important match—music stays by our side and gives us tremendous strength.
Many of you probably listen to your favorite songs to boost your spirits as you head into those special moments.
In this article, we’ve picked out uplifting, heart-stirring anthems that raise your motivation.
From upbeat tracks that fire up your fighting spirit, to relaxing numbers that wrap you in a sense of calm, to athletes’ personal favorites—we’ve gathered a wide variety of songs.
We hope you’ll find them helpful.
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[Songs to Listen to Before a Match] Loved by Athletes Too!? Power-Packed Anthems and Winning Tracks (131–140)
Passion ContinentHakasé Tarō
A composition by violinist Taro Hakase—whose name has resonated both in Japan and abroad through his collaboration with the world-renowned diva Celine Dion.
Widely known as the theme song for the human-interest documentary program “Jounetsu Tairiku,” it is one of Hakase’s signature pieces.
The tango rhythm by bandoneon player Ryota Komatsu and the passionate violin tones—just as the title suggests—combine with the program’s image to amplify an athlete’s intensity.
It’s a track that lifts your spirits just by listening, making it a recommended number for athletes before a match.
GO☆FIGHT☆WINB’z
A title that makes you feel truly empowered is sure to boost your motivation even before you listen! With B’z’s signature hard rock sound and Inaba’s piercing high notes, this powerful track is guaranteed to give you strength.
Plus, I want you to pay attention not only to the musical style but also to the lyrics.
The words, which sing about continuing to fight no matter how tough the situation, will surely give you courage as you head into your match.
MiracleGReeeeN
Greeeen’s “Kiseki,” released in 2008, is a classic that has continued to give energy and courage to people across Japan.
I think many would say their source of strength comes from having friends and close companions by their side.
Spending time with friends lets you talk through hardships, share the pain, and feel refreshed.
“Kiseki” is a song that reminds us once again of the importance of staying close to loved ones and friends with whom we can share our pain.
When you’re struggling, sharing with friends rather than trying to solve everything on your own will likely help you bounce back more quickly.
Watch Mebanvox
Many of you have probably heard this melody before.
It was featured in a Google Android commercial.
It’s a 2015 track by banvox, a Japanese track maker supported by DJs like David Guetta and Avicii.
The addictive melody is catchy and familiar, and it’ll get you so hyped you’ll want to start bouncing.
The moment it drops is incredible, too.
Put it on as background music or keep listening before a game, and it’ll help you perform at your best in a nicely relaxed yet adrenaline-charged state!
ApolloPorno Graffitti
The debut single that put Porno Graffitti’s name on the map.
When it was released in 1999, its bold theme centered on the Apollo 11 moon landing drew a great deal of attention, and since then it has remained one of the band’s signature songs, enjoying huge popularity at live shows.
The lyrics combine a critique of our modern, technology-driven society with literary elements that speak to the timeless, unchanging nature of love—lines that stick so firmly in your mind you can’t forget them even after many years.
There must be plenty of people who can instantly recall and hum the chorus of this song!
Starting Now ~ To the New MeShimizu Miisa
Starting Now ~A New Me~, sung by Miisha Shimizu, was chosen as the Japanese theme song for the Disney Princess festival, the Ultimate Princess Celebration.
It also drew attention when golfer Mone Inami, who won a silver medal in the women’s event at the Tokyo Olympics, mentioned it as a song she often listens to before matches.
With its upbeat, forward-driving rhythm and lyrics that express the spirit of Disney Princesses—qualities that resonate with sportsmanship—Starting Now ~A New Me~ is a highly recommended track for athletes as well!
peace signYonezu Kenshi
Kenshi Yonezu’s song, written as the opening theme for Season 2 of the youth anime My Hero Academia, is an anthem that powerfully portrays courage and challenge.
While acknowledging weakness, it follows a protagonist who takes a step toward their dreams, intertwining with a driving melody that stirs the listener’s heart.
Released in June 2017, the track topped the Billboard JAPAN Hot Animation weekly chart and became a massive hit, surpassing 300 million streams.
With its band-driven sound and Yonezu’s distinctive vocals, it’s a song that pushes all challengers forward.
Perfect for club practice or as a companion while watching sports—give it a listen.